There is no ambiguity about South Africa's position on Libya

09 March 2011

The media has made reference to reports on Libyan television about some remarks which are apparently attributed to President Jacob Zuma relating to Libya.

President Zuma has spoken out clearly on the Libyan question. South Africa has openly condemned the loss of life and attacks on civilians and reported violations of human rights in Libya.

The country supports the positions taken by the African Union and the United Nations on Libya and there has never been any ambiguity about the position of either President Zuma or the country.

The President stated his views and those of the country publicly as well at a press conference with President Nicolas Sarkozy of the Republic of France during the recent State Visit, where he amongst others, called for an end to violence against civilians.

The Presidency will not be drawn into rumours and distortions of the conversation with the Leader of Libya, Col Muammar Gadaffi, who had called to explain his side of the story.

Statement issued by the Presidency, March 9 2011

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